Free Republic

Video of her speech Valerie Jarrett: 'America Stands Ready to Lead Again' "In the 21st century our security is shared," says Valerie Jarrett, top adviser to President Barack Obama. She outlines steps the new administration is taking to establish peace in the Middle East, eradicate global poverty, and fight climate change. ~~~ Video - Valerie B. Jarrett: The New US Agenda"

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger griped last year that the state prison guards union had grown too powerful. So who did he appoint to challenge the labor group during contract talks this spring? A former guard who helped engineer the union's rise to prominence. Tim Virga, a one-time union activist, will act as one of the state's lead negotiators in talks with the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. State officials this week described Virga as a skilled negotiator who will drive a tough bargain with the 30,000-member union, widely considered one of California's most politically influential labor groups. “Mr. Virga's background and...